Learn how to identify, prevent and treat ear keloids

Keloid in the ear is a healing disorder, which can arise due to several factors, such as the placement of piercings or earrings, for example. To learn more about the problem and how to treat it, we consulted dermatologist Leonardo Abrucio (CRM: 66591), from BP – A Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo. Check out!

What is keloid and why does it appear?

According to the dermatologist, a keloid is a raised, dark-colored lesion that usually hurts or itch. “The keloid on the ear is an exuberant scar whose limit goes beyond the site of injury”, says Leonardo.

This type of problem appears due to some local trauma, such as wounds, cuts, new holes for earrings or piercings – which triggers an abnormal growth of tissue to be healed.

5 questions answered by the dermatologist

There are a number of doubts about the keloid that appear frequently. Follow the dermatologist’s clarifications!

1. Does keloid hurt?

The keloid, associated with the size of the injury, can hurt or itch, depending on each case.

2. If you remove the piercing or earring, does the keloid come off?

In most cases, when the earring or piercing is removed, the problem decreases.

3. Can keloids be hereditary?

The hereditary component is important and can interfere with the appearance of keloids. Also, if the person has ever had this problem, they may have it again through surgery, cuts, or injuries.”

4. What is the difference between keloids and normal scars?

A hypertrophic scar is one that is above normal skin and is the size of a surgical cut. The keloid scar is larger than the hypertrophic scar, presenting symptoms of pain and itching more exuberant than the other.

5. How to prevent keloids?

To prevent it, one must undergo an adequate surgical technique, with good asepsis so as not to have infections. After surgery or the placement of earrings and piercings, it is recommended to avoid sun exposure and not scratch, in addition to not undergoing unnecessary surgeries, such as removing a mole unnecessarily, for example, if there is a tendency to keloids.

If you had a piercing or earring and noticed any irregularities, be sure to look for a specialist to indicate the most appropriate treatment! Below, we list some treatments that may be considered. Check out!

Ear keloid treatments

Ear keloid treatments can be mainly topical or occlusive. See the explanations about the most indicated!

Corticosteroid-based treatments

Corticosteroid-based creams or ointments are indicated to reduce inflammation in the region. According to the dermatologist, there are silicone gels and Diprogenta. The second has in its composition betamethasone dipropionate, which reduces the inflammatory process and gentamicin, responsible for fighting the infectious process. “It is recommended to place the medication in the affected area and cover it to penetrate deeper into the skin”, says Leonardo.

There are also occlusive treatments, such as Drenison Occlusive, which are tapes with anti-inflammatory components. These tapes act directly on the treated area, providing relief and improvement.

Ear keloid surgery

Leonardo explains that keloid surgery should be performed if topical treatments with corticosteroids in the form of a cream, such as Diprogenta, silicone gels or Drenison Occlusive, are not effective.

Tips to do at home

According to Leonardo, there are no home treatments with proven results in the treatment of keloids in the ear. However, applying a cold compress helps to reduce the size of the keloid in the area.

Maintaining care and always opting for an appropriate procedure when making a new hole in the ear is essential to avoid this problem, as well as seeking more information about your family’s history regarding post-surgery inflammation. If you suffer from this problem, also see indications of ointments available for keloids.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.